Hate speech has a long-standing tradition on the internet. At the beginning it particularly affected individuals, which was bad enough. But we have long since understood the destructive potential of these slurs for society as a whole. A grave effect, aside from the brutalization of discussion culture is also the undermining of democracy. Hannes Ley is fighting against hate on the internet alongside 37.000 members of his Facebook group #ichbinhier (I am here).

Whenever lies are intentionally spread and misogynist, xenophobic and other hate speech incites the basest instincts, #ichbinhier stands up to this current and positions itself clearly against it. Calmly, sure of their facts and without unnecessary emotions. Because where fake news and hate speech convenes, there is a potential for dividing society if nobody counteracts it. Yet engaged citizens can achieve a lot with civil courage and mutual support– Hannes Ley demonstrates this. ‘We don’t talk about Counter Speech. We practice it.’ Hannes Ley

Hannes Ley is a freelance communications consultant in Hamburg. He founded #ichbinhier in the end of 2016. 37.000 members joined in only half a year.